Gov’t Urges Opposition to Adhere to Protest Regulations

The government has called on the opposition to uphold the rules and regulations governing public gatherings, stressing that adherence to such measures is fundamental to maintaining democratic norms and principles in the Maldives.

The statement follows criticism from the main opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), which accused the government of obstructing its efforts to organise a political rally in Malé.

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Responding to the claims, the Chief Spokesperson at the President’s Office, Heena Waleed, highlighted the importance of responsible political engagement and advocacy on matters of national interest as part of strengthening democracy.

She noted that under previous administrations, permission to assemble was limited to the Carnival area in eastern Malé. However, the current government has expanded the designated spaces for peaceful protest to include the Rasfannu area, the south-west reclaimed area of Malé, and Usfasgandu.

She added that gatherings outside of these areas require written approval from the Maldives Police Service.

Heena urged political leaders to avoid misleading the public, reiterating that observing the law, even when exercising the right to peaceful assembly and expression, was vital to upholding democratic values and the rule of law.